Letters to the Editor - 12/8/2012

Editor: As our older population increases, so will the need for aging services.

Today there are nearly 2.7 million Pennsylvanians 60 and older, including more than 300,000 85 and older. By 2030, it is estimated that 3.6 million Pennsylvanians will be 60 and older.

The Department of Aging's mission is to enhance the quality of life for older Pennsylvanians by empowering diverse communities, the family and the individual. The two main goals are to prevent older adults from instability in health and well-being that may result in institutional care and dependence on government assistance, and protect them from abuse, neglect, abandonment and exploitation.

Pennsylvania is the only state to use lottery funding solely for services that support its older residents. The Department of Aging does not receive any funds from the state's general fund.

As our older population increases, so will the need for aging services. The lottery funds services that directly support nearly 1 million older Pennsylvanians and provides necessary respite and support to their families and caregivers.

As we move through the process of analyzing a private management agreement for the lottery, the best interest of older Pennsylvanians who rely on critical services supported by the lottery will remain the sole, paramount priority.

The Department of Aging supports efforts such as the exploration of a private management agreement. This has the potential to increase revenues for programs and services supporting older Pennsylvanians.

BRIAN M. DUKE

SECRETARY OF AGING

Seal good deal

Editor: With Thanksgiving over and Black Friday behind us, it's time to look into the tradition of the holiday season. With that comes the annual American Lung Association Christmas Seals Campaign, a holiday tradition that has been around for over 100 years.

One small stamp can leave the imprint of a lifetime. The stamps are the epitome of the holidays. Decorate all of your gifts and cards with a stamp that has meaning and hope behind it. By purchasing the American Lung Association Christmas Seals you are joining the fight against lung cancer, COPD, asthma, and all lung disease.

For more information on Christmas Seals or to purchase please visit www.christmasseals.org.

DEB BROWN

PRESIDENT AND CEO, AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION OF THE MID-ATLANTIC

Lifting spirits

Editor: What a nice surprise I received at my home tonight when four young men came to sing Christmas carols.

They were great, had a nice routine worked out and did a great rendition of "Jingle Bells."

It was so refreshing to see young men, probably in their middle to late teens, have some much fun entertaining in the Plot neighborhood. What a nice gesture.

They need to know how much I enjoyed their visit and entertainment. Kudos to them all. Keep up the excellent work.

JOAN MAGOR

SCRANTON

Voices heard

Editor: I'd like to thank Keyser Valley Citizens Association members and all West Scranton residents who stood up against the closure of West Scranton's only firehouse, at 1917 Luzerne St., 82 percent of the time.

Whether you signed a petition, spoke at one of our meetings or just attended one, I thank you for your participation.

The city announced recently that the West Scranton firehouse on Luzerne Street will be open 90 percent of the time. Without the involvement of residents this change for better fire protection in West Side may not have occurred.

Thank you for helping get the fire protection you deserve.

GARY DiBILEO

KVCA PRESIDENT

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